State drafts bill to harden its stance on bullying

Many states are beginning to crack down on bullies in school systems as part of an effort to curb violent behavior. Victims who are harassed often suffer from anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation.

As a result, Montana lawmakers along with school superintendents and the state's attorney general are seeking ways to update policies regarding bullies, the Associated Press reports.

The current proposal defines bullying, harassment or intimidation as any threatening, insulting or demeaning behavior toward another student. This includes behavior that occurs on school grounds or over the Internet. Supporters of the new bill told the news source that it would provide guidelines for investigating complaints, notifying parents and protecting victims.

"The thought that some children do not feel safe at school is something that Montanans cannot allow," Sen. Kim Gillan, told the news source.

Private boarding schools for teens can help victims of bullying by offering group therapy.

According to a 2009 survey from the Cyberbullying Research Center, approximately 7.5 percent of students reported being harassed online.